Big Number Two

Today we celebrated Elena's second birthday one day early. Since this is just her second birthday party, she is still learning about the social expectations that come along with birthdays. For example, when presented with the birthday "cake," one wants to make oneself presentable.Lesson number two: aging is something that none of us can avoid. One must learn to embrace the fact that yet another year has passed and accept it gracefully.We had a great time at the party and would like to thank everyone who made it. I think the kids enjoyed themselves. Karen decided to hire child wranglers for the event, which may have been her best decision since marrying me. The girls played quietly together (here with Hannah; Shelby is in the upper left corner of the previous pic)...While the boys took turns slamming a ball against each others' skull on the stairway.This scene reminded me of when I told my friends that I was having a girl. One friend congratulated me for "not having a boy." Now I know what he was talking about.

Here is a picture of Karen, looking sexy despite the fact that she is 5 months pregnant (with a boy...). We haven't opened presents yet, but Elena did get a balloon from her Nana. The balloon turned out to be a big hit. She took it with her EVERYWHERE, and threw a fit about going outside because she had to abandon her beloved balloon. The only way we could get her into the bathtub (her #2 favorite pastime next to going outside) this evening was to bait her with the balloon.